WA farmers, rural businesses and truckies are planning huge convoys of road trains loaded with donated hay to help drought-hit farmers in the Eastern States.

Between 50 and 70 road trains will rumble into Queensland and NSW in January as part of an effort by Farmers Across Borders — Hay from WA, headed by Esperance region farmers Sam Starcevich and Anne Bell.

Up to 10 semitrailers laden with hay and feed pellets will set off from Kojonup this month in an initiative by local trucking companies Kendall Trucking and Co and Peter Wright Transport, which have formed the Great Southern Hearts Drive for Life.

Kendall owner Glenn Kendall said planning started for the trip only 10 days ago, but local farmers and businesses had already committed eight truckloads, worth about $10,000 each, with more expected to come before the September 24 departure.

Ms Starcevich said arrangements for the January convoy were in their infancy, but farmers had already shown strong support by donating at least 30 road trains worth of hay. Each would carry between 40 and 50 tonnes.

Ms Starcevich and Ms Bell were behind a convoy of 16 trucks which went to NSW in 2014, with hay and transport mostly from their region.

With more farmers rallying behind the effort and collection points across the Wheatbelt, the January convoy will be far bigger, with 50 to 70 trucks likely.

The January initiative is supported by the Lions Club Need for Feed, with truck drivers donating their time and vehicles. Fuel costs are still being organised. Haulage company Channel 40 is arranging the logistics.

Ms Starcevich, who six weeks ago didn’t know whether her own property would have a crop to harvest, said the 2014 effort was emotional, with trucks arriving to teary residents desperately in need of feed for their animals.

For the Great Southern led departure this month, fuel could be partially covered by cash donations, but truckies will also dig into their own pockets as well as donating their time and vehicles.

Cash donations are being collected by Kojonup Lions Club and CWA Nyabing.

“Getting feed to these guys is the end result, but we also plan to do what we can to lift spirits, we’ll be hosting barbecues and other events in the town in a bid to promote rural living,” Mr Kendall said